Cranberry

🍒 What Are Cranberries?
Cranberries are small, tart red berries commonly used in juices, sauces, baked goods, and dried snack mixes. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and proanthocyanidins, which are widely associated with general urinary tract wellness.

🤔 Why Might a Sensitivity to Cranberries Occur?

Sensitivity to cranberries may result from:

• Benzoates: Naturally occurring compounds in cranberries that may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.

• Acidity: Their high acid content can irritate those with sensitive digestive systems.

• Fructose: The natural sugars in cranberries may contribute to discomfort for individuals with fructose malabsorption.

🛠️ Supportive Wellness Choices

• Avoid cranberries and cranberry-based products for 8 weeks.

• Gradually reintroduce them afterward to evaluate tolerance.

• Track your symptoms before and after reintroduction to identify improvements.

💊 Supportive General Supplements

Consider:

• Digestive Enzymes: Assist with breaking down natural sugars and acids.

• Probiotics: Support gut health and overall digestive comfort.

• Quercetin: May support natural inflammatory balance related to benzoate sensitivity.

🌟 Why Might I Have a Sensitivity to Cranberries but Not Other Berries?

Key differences include:

• Higher Benzoate Levels: Cranberries naturally contain more benzoates than fruits like strawberries.

• Increased Acidity: Cranberries are significantly more tart than sweeter berries such as blueberries.

• Lower Sugar Content: Their combination of low sweetness and high acidity may be more irritating for certain individuals.

🍽️ Popular Uses for Cranberries

• Cranberry sauce

• Cranberry juice

• Dried cranberries

• Cranberry baked goods

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated)

• Blueberries

• Strawberries

• Raspberries

• Blackberries